Access and waiting: a briefing note

12 November 2013

Timely access to effective services is crucial in every area of mental health care and support. People with mental health problems do not currently have the same rights to timely access to treatment as those with other types of ill health. Delays in treatment for mental health problems can be costly.

Three-quarters of people with depression never receive any treatment or support. Untreated depression can lead to job loss, disrupted education and poorer physical health and life expectancy. Early and prompt intervention is vital in almost all mental health conditions, including behavioural problems in childhood and emerging psychosis among young people.

This briefing note (briefly) covers the issues around access to mental health services and waiting times.

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